Margaret Murphy '90

When she was only 17, Margaret Murphy didn't try to get a summer job at a retail mall. Instead she leased her own fast-food restaurant, hiring her brothers as employees. That youthful move put her on a career track that's only gained momentum.

After getting a BA from the College of Saint Benedict and later an MBA from the University of St. Thomas, she became a top performer at Carlson Marketing for 15 years. There she gained recognition as the youngest recipient of the company's top honor for customer service. She made a move to Denali Marketing in 2007 to become the 4th employee. With her leadership the firm grew to more than $20 million in revenue. In 2010 Denali was sold to Olson, a fastest growing, award-winning ad agency. Six months later Murphy was named president and chief operating officer.

Her leadership style is collaborative and authentic, and her approach has led to consecutive years of double-digit growth and an enviably high employee retention rate.

Murphy's commitment to her community is just as robust. She served as an original founding board member for Faith's Lodge, a place designed for parents and families facing the serious illness or loss of a child. She's also worked to support St. Joseph's Home for Children, a program offering shelter and stability for families. Her volunteer commitment to CSB is many hours logged as a mentor to students and alumnae and employer of many student interns.